Beer consumption and exports continue downward trend
Belgian beer consumption and exports declined again in 2025, while the number of breweries fell below 400, industry federation Belgische Brouwers said with the publication of its annual report.
Domestic beer consumption has been falling for years, reflecting broader changes in drinking habits. While sales of alcohol-free and low-alcohol beers continue to grow rapidly, they have not been enough to offset the overall decline. Consumption fell by 3.2 per cent last year, with both retail sales and the hospitality sector recording lower volumes.
Exports, which account for around 70 per cent of Belgian beer production, also continued their downward trend. Overseas markets were particularly affected, although exports within the European Union proved more resilient.
The challenging market conditions are also reflected in the number of breweries, which dropped from 411 to 395 last year. Direct employment declined as well, though investment in the sector increased.
Domestic consumption of beers with lower alcohol content rose strongly in 2025, however, while alcohol-free beers recorded particularly rapid growth. More than 150 alcohol-free Belgian beers are now available, according to the federation.
"The sector has been under pressure for quite some time," said CEO Krishan Maudgal. He pointed to rising production costs, the lingering effects of the energy crisis, inflation in raw material prices and geopolitical uncertainty.
Health warnings
Despite the challenges, Maudgal highlighted the sector's resilience, citing continued investment, growth in alcohol-free products and Belgium's strong beer export position.
The federation also criticised the recent change to the mandatory health warning accompanying alcohol advertising. Previously, the message stated that "alcohol abuse harms health"; it now reads "alcohol harms health".
"That is being lumped together with everything concerning excessive and harmful consumption," said Maudgal. The brewers argue that health policy should focus on alcohol abuse rather than moderate consumption.
© PHOTO KENZO TRIBOUILLARD / AFP
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